head to head
vs
Prey (2017)vsThe Last Guy
Prey (2017) leans Optimization (Pure Optimization); The Last Guy leans Optimization (Practiced Mastery).
Prey (2017)The Last Guy
Axis by axis
Execution4 vs 5
The Last Guy leans harder on execution: Leading a trailing crowd while dodging monsters needs control
Reads1 vs 2
The Last Guy leans harder on reads: Monsters follow scripted behavior, not adapting
Variance2 vs 3
The Last Guy leans harder on variance: Civilian and monster placements add some variation
Optimization8 vs 7
Prey (2017) leans harder on optimization: Neuromods, builds, station routing deeply solvable.
Two games can score the same on an axis and still test it in very different ways - read each rationale, not just the number.